A Frustrating Farewell to France (and Monaco)

PORTO VENERE.

Left the campsite at 9:30 with the advice of the gardener to try the coast road. We spent a good 30 minutes going round in circles getting nowhere in Nice. We gave up and drove to Monaco via the top road. Then, we were unable to park in Monte Carlo. So, I followed Bert's advice to keep my hands and my money in my pockets and set off for Italy. (Bert, Rosie's dad, is a true Yorkshireman.)

The satnav says that the coast road will take 10 hours and the motorway without tolls, 15! We decide to use the toll road. It takes only 4 hours but costs euro 33.50.

Porto Venere, in North West Italy beyond Genoa, is a real find. Similar to St Ives a coastal village with a number of restaurants. Lord Byron, the poet, is said to have swam across the harbour here. We settle for one called Medusa which offers a menu del giorno for euro 18 including wine. In keeping with the trip, it is only available at lunchtime. However, we enjoy a salad, pasta, desert and a litre of wine in an excellent atmosphere.

2 pieces of good news, today. The warranty is extended and Rosie is able to change the ferry time to be home with Alex without additional cost.